In a move aimed at bolstering regional health systems, Tanzania’s Medical Stores Department (MSD) on Tuesday held high-level talks with the Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Mr Elias M. Magosi, who also serves as the current Chairperson of SADC.
The meeting, chaired by MSD Director General Mavere Tukai, marked a significant step towards deepening collaboration among SADC member states in improving access to quality health commodities, enhancing supply chain security, and promoting joint efforts in local pharmaceutical production, research, and distribution.
In his remarks, Tukai reaffirmed MSD’s commitment to fostering cross-border cooperation to ensure that health products are not only available and affordable but also meet high standards of quality and safety.
“We believe that through strengthened regional collaboration, we can enhance our operational capacity, drive efficiency in procurement, and streamline the distribution of medicines and medical supplies across the SADC bloc,” said Tukai.
He noted that MSD’s ongoing reforms and innovations are aligned with broader regional goals of improving healthcare delivery through sustainable systems and shared best practices.
On his part, Mr Magosi lauded MSD’s role in transforming Tanzania’s public health supply chain and described the institution as a benchmark for excellence within the SADC region.
“MSD has consistently demonstrated professionalism, innovation, and accountability. Its achievements offer a valuable blueprint for other member states as we collectively strive to improve health outcomes in the region,” said Magosi.
He expressed optimism that the partnership would pave the way for a more coordinated approach in tackling health challenges affecting the SADC population.
The meeting forms part of broader efforts by SADC to promote regional integration and build resilient health systems that can respond effectively to current and future public health needs.
It also reflects MSD’s growing profile as a key player in the regional health agenda, particularly in pharmaceutical logistics and strategic procurement.
As the region continues to recover from the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, officials noted that partnerships such as this will be instrumental in creating self-sustaining systems capable of ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all SADC citizens.
MSD, a government agency under Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, plays a central role in managing the national supply chain of medicines and medical equipment.
Its engagement with SADC marks another milestone in its vision to extend its impact beyond borders, contributing to the health and well-being of communities across the southern African region.